How to Store a Washing Machine the Right Way

A washing machine spends its whole life surrounded by water, so it is tempting to assume a little leftover moisture is no big deal.

Unfortunately, storage is where washing machines get picky. A small amount of trapped water can turn into mold, rust, funky smells, or hoses that crack at the worst possible time. Washing machines love doing laundry. They do not love sitting closed up and damp.

If you want to store a washing machine and have it come out ready to work later, the steps are simple. The key is doing all of them, not just the ones that feel convenient.

Before we get started, be sure to check out our other helpful guides such as how to store wood furniture without climate control and how to properly store your RV. 

Quick checklist

• Unplug the machine and shut off the water supply
  
  
• Disconnect hoses and drain them completely
  
  
• Drain the internal pump and filter area
  
  
• Clean the machine inside and out, then let it fully dry
  
  
• Secure the drum so it does not bounce around
  
  
• Cover with something breathable
  
  
• Store upright and elevate it off the floor
  
  
• Leave the door slightly open for airflow
  
  
• Inspect parts before reconnecting
  
  

What damages washing machines in storage

Most storage problems come from three culprits:

• Trapped moisture creates mold, mildew, and corrosion.
• Temperature swings can make rubber seals stiff or cracked.
• Movement can damage internal suspension components, especially on front load machines where the drum is designed to be stabilized during transport.

A washing machine can work perfectly on the day you put it away and still come back with issues later if water is left inside or the door is sealed shut for months.

Step 1: Disconnect power and water safely

Start by unplugging the machine. Then turn off the hot and cold water valves. When you disconnect the hoses, keep a bucket and towels nearby because there is almost always water still hanging out in the lines.

Drain each hose completely into the bucket. Any hose left with water inside can grow mold, smell bad, or crack if it hits cold enough temperatures.

If the hoses are older, storage is a good time to mentally prepare yourself to replace them when you set the machine back up. Old hoses are brave until they are not.

Step 2: Drain the water you cannot see

Even with the hoses removed, water can still be trapped inside the machine. Many washers have a drain pump filter or small access panel near the bottom front.

Place towels or a shallow pan under the area, then slowly open the filter to let the water drain out. This is one of the most skipped steps, and it is also one of the most important. Water left in the pump area is a common cause of storage related rust and odor.

Once drained, give that compartment a little time to air out before closing it back up.

Step 3: Clean it like you actually want it back

Empty is not the same as clean. Detergent residue, fabric softener buildup, and lint can hold moisture and help mold get comfortable.

If your washer has a cleaning cycle, run it. If it does not, run an empty hot cycle with a washing machine cleaner. After that, wipe down the drum, door gasket, detergent drawer, and any seals.

Then let it dry completely with the door and detergent drawer open for several hours. Do not rush this part. A sealed damp washing machine is basically a science project waiting to happen.

Step 4: Secure the drum before it gets jostled

Front load washers need the drum secured to avoid damage during moving and storage. If you have the original transport bolts, reinstall them following the manufacturer’s instructions.

If you do not have them, handle the machine gently and avoid rough movement during transport. The goal is to keep the drum from bouncing around like it is auditioning for a trampoline team.

Top load washers are generally less sensitive, but they still should be moved upright and handled carefully.

Step 5: Protect the exterior without trapping moisture

Wipe down the outside too. Moisture on metal surfaces can lead to rust over time, especially in storage. Cover the machine with a breathable cover, like a cotton sheet or fabric appliance cover. Avoid plastic coverings because they trap condensation and keep moisture close to the machine. That is the opposite of what you want.

If the control panel or knobs feel exposed, add light padding to prevent bumps or scratches.

Step 6: Pick a good storage spot and elevate it

The best storage location is dry and temperature stable. Indoors is ideal. If the machine will sit on a concrete floor, elevate it using pallets or boards. Concrete can release moisture and increase the risk of rust at contact points.

Also try to avoid placing it right against exterior walls or in spots where temperatures swing dramatically.

Step 7: Store it upright and let it breathe

Always store a washing machine upright. Laying it on its side or back can cause lubricants to move into areas they should not be, which can lead to mechanical issues later.

Once positioned, make sure it is stable and level. Then leave the door slightly open to allow airflow. This helps prevent stale smells and moisture buildup. If you are worried about it swinging open, you can gently secure it in a slightly open position using soft fabric, as long as the interior still has airflow.

Step 8: Inspect before you reconnect

When it is time to use the washer again, inspect hoses, seals, and fittings for stiffness or cracking. Reconnect the water lines securely, then run a short rinse cycle first and check for leaks before doing a full load.

A little caution here can save you from discovering a leak at the exact moment you walk away.

Final thought

Storing a washing machine correctly is less about muscle and more about patience. Drain it thoroughly, dry it completely, secure what moves, and keep moisture from getting trapped. Do that, and your washer has a very good chance of coming out of storage ready to get back to work without drama.



Local Storage Group has many storage facility locations across the midwest and east coast U.S. Our goal is to provide the best storage experience possible and provide you with all the information you need to store your belongings properly and safely.